Study in Asia

Explore Asia

Looking for something different outside of conventional study destinations? When it comes to furthering their studies, more and more students are considering the Far East. Asian nations have become an attractive option among international students to get not only a high-quality education, but also fun and exciting life experiences that won’t break the bank.

The expansive, culturally- and geographically-diverse continent is home to 18 of the top 100 universities in the QS World University Rankings for 2015-2016. Asia is seeing booming growth rates in terms of economic, political, and cultural influence, while its universities are pushing the envelope in research and industry, so if you want to be where the action is, you’ve picked the right place.

Each country has its own unique identity and different opportunities on offer, so it can be a bit difficult to know which one will suit you best. To help you find the right fit, check out our country profiles.

Malaysia

One of the country’s most memorable trademarks is its welcoming, “Malaysia, Truly Asia” motto. And indeed, most students who come here to study will agree! Its community is an amazing melting pot of various cultures, including Malay, Chinese, and Indian. From buzzing cities to verdant rainforests and sandy beaches, you’ll be hard pressed to fit in some studying in between your travels.

The country has two parts separated by the South China Sea – peninsular Malaysia, where its capital of Kuala Lumpur (ranked most affordable student city by QS Best Student Cities 2016) is located, and East Malaysia on Borneo, which is more laid-back, less crowded, and full of natural wonders. And let’s not forget the food! Thanks to its range of cultures, Malaysia is a haven for foodies.

Malaysia’s higher education system is ranked 27th in the world, and as part of its plans to become an international education hub, it has opened its doors to a number of big-name universities which have set up branch campuses, such as the UK’s University of Nottingham.

Hong Kong

Known as the Pearl of the Orient, Hong Kong is a dynamic blend of Eastern and Western culture, and is a global hub for finance, trade, and logistics. But there’s more to the city than its iconic sights, such as Victoria Harbour.

Though it is an autonomous territory of China, Hong Kong is no lightweight: its higher education system is ranked 20th in the world, which has served to attract not only students from mainland China, but around the world.

The widespread use of English in day-to-day life and education, as well as its multicultural environment, has made it an appealing option for international students. According to Numbeo, Hong Kong was named the 21st safest city in the world, which probably helped it clinch the 8th position in the QS Best Student Cities Index 2016.

Many of its universities are highly-regarded internationally, with three of them ranking among the world’s top 50 institutions. Regionally, it is also a leading higher education centre, with four universities in the top 10 for Asia.

Singapore

The small city-state of Singapore packs a punch when it comes to higher education: two of its universities made the top three in the 2015/16 Asian rankings, with National University of Singapore (NUS) clinching the top spot for the third consecutive year. Globally, both NUS and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) are placed at #12 and #13.

Singapore has built a strong reputation in research and innovation, with a higher education system that was ranked 21st. Its residents enjoy high quality of life, including low levels of crime and unemployment.

English is one of its main languages, so international students will have no problem getting settled in. As a tourism hotspot, the island is packed with things to see and do, and has a lively nightlife.

South Korea

South Korea’s distinctive blend of age-old traditions and modern culture makes it a vibrant and diverse country for international students seeking an authentic study experience in a dynamic and unique environment.

Ranked 25th in the world for competitiveness by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) and 4th in Asia for education, South Korea is regarded internationally as a powerhouse of innovation. Technically-minded students in particular can benefit from a culture of excellence in the technology, communications, machinery and chemical industries.

But South Korea’s appeal is not limited to the high-tech. Whether it’s the country’s affordable living costs, education scholarships and bursaries, high level of student safety or the unique and diverse location, it’s clear that the ‘Land of the Morning Calm’ has something for everyone. And with the capital city Seoul ranked #10 out of 74 cities around the world by QS Best Student Cities 2016, South Korea stakes a strong claim as a top student destination.

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